02 January 2014

Crescent Moon and Crescent Venus

Two Crescents

The evening sky features two crescents this week, that of the waxing Moon and waning Venus. The Moon's phases are quite familiar to all, but Venus goes through similar phases for similar reasons, and we can observe it from more than just the 'full' phase as we do with outer planets such as Jupiter and Saturn. Venus waxes and wanes like the Moon. This week as it comes close to inferior conjunction, it will resemble the Moon when viewed through a telescope or binoculars. You'll need a clear and low western horizon to see this view shortly after sunset.

About Me

In 2005 I began writing a column for the San Francisco Waldorf School newsletter called "The Urban Astronomer." I started this blog in 2007 as a place to archive my articles and to offer additional insights on the night sky - even if you live in a big city. In 2008 I became an occasional guest on the KFOG Morning Show, and more recently on KALW and KGO. Archived shows are posted on the blog.